Elevate Destinations

Experts in socially responsible luxury travel. We design travel experiences that support conservation and local communities without skimping on comfort.

Borneo

Eco-Luxury Adventures

Discover one of the world's last great wildernesses

Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is a treasure trove of biodiversity and culture spanning Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. Its beauty is reflected in every landscape, from the Kinabatangan River, one of the island’s most biodiverse ecosystems, to the Danum Valley Conservation Area, home to some of the world's most vulnerable and endangered species, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and the clouded leopard.

Borneo has many community projects that enable you to give back to the people and preserve the land. Visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, dedicated to protecting this vulnerable species, learn about rescued orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, and stay in eco-lodges that offer sustainable accommodations without compromising luxury.

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Sample Itineraries

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What our travelers are saying

  • “An amazing journey with wonderful guides and exceptional accommodations, Elevate Destinations understood our vision for this special trip and architected an adventure filled with lifelong memories.”

    –Thane Kreiner, Japan

  • “It was so inspiring to learn about the history and culture of Japan. I grew in heart, spirit and mind from the experience. The variety of experiences from the busy energy of Tokyo to the peaceful countryside. I loved meditating with a monk in the temple, the kids loved the snow monkeys, my husband loved seeing the minkas and meeting the families that lived in them.”

    –Kathy Sharpe, Japan

  • “I cannot speak highly enough of Elevate Destinations and the exceptional service they provide for international travel. They are ethical, and seamless in travel planning. Their team takes the time to understand our travel goals, preferences, and even the small details that make a big difference when you’re abroad. ”

    –Robin Giles, Indonesia

  • A woman dressed in a white and gold saree with a man in a blue shirt and sunglasses. They are outdoors, surrounded by lush green plants.

    “EVERYTHING about the trip was amazing, thoughtfully planned, and perfectly orchestrated. The itinerary was perfect. This trip was life-changing! ”

    –Donna Natrajan, India

  • Three adults stand outdoors in front of trees and buildings, smiling at the camera. The person on the left wears a blue shirt, the person in the center wears yellow, and the person on the right wears black.

    “Our trip to Japan couldn’t have been better. Lana’s expert guidance allowed all of us to truly relax and enjoy the journey. I have recommended Elevate Destinations to at least a dozen friends.”

    –Laura Kurinij, Japan

  • Bhutan: A monastery with white walls and golden roofs is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, surrounded by green forested mountains under a clear blue sky.

    “The adventures and accommodations in Punakha, Thimphu and Paro were great. We particularly like the nunnery we visited, exploring Thimphu city, hiking Tiger's Nest, and tree planting. Thunder was one of the best guides we've had, and we travel a lot.”

    –Anu Menon, Bhutan

  • Japan: Snow-capped Mount Fuji rises in the background behind a forest and a calm lake, with vibrant red autumn leaves framing the top of the image against a clear blue sky.

    “We will remember Japan forever. Dominique and Emily are responsive and thoughtful. This is the sixth trip we have taken with Elevate. The only obvious question is when and where is the seventh?”

    –Robin Giles, Japan

  • Sri Lanka: Lush green tea plantations cover rolling hills, with rows of tea plants and scattered trees. Mist rises in the background, and distant hills are visible under a soft blue sky.

    “The trip to Sri Lanka was fantastic. We were pleasantly surprised with the country, the people and the different locales we visited. Great planning and organizing by you – thank you for everything. Look forward to the next adventure with you guys! ”

    –Jaytee Kanwal, Sri Lanka

  • “I did not know how much this journey would change me. Being surrounded by beauty, witnessing all that nature has to offer and knowing that this place is so deeply connected to spirituality fed my soul so much that it overflowed. I will never forget my time in Ladakh. It is something I will cherish forever.”

    –Jessica Dolan, India

  • “Everything was seamless and yet adjustable based on our desires to explore. We did not just witness the cultural differences, we experienced and left with them ingrained in our soul. Thank you Elevate Destinations and Lana, this trip will continue to live in our lives.”

    –Shannon Plumstead, India

  • India: A group of women and men sit closely together on the floor inside a brick building, smiling at the camera. Some women wear headscarves, while others do not. The mood appears friendly and relaxed.

    “We were extremely pleased with Elevate in putting together an amazing trip to India! We had a number of specific requests outside of the usual travel plan. Dominique was unfazed, working hard to put together something that met our many needs. It’s hard to talk about the highlights – because the entire trip was so awesome – but our recommendations would be to go off the beaten path as well as seeing major sights. ”

    –Jan Goldstein and Shereen Arendt, India

  • “Everything was done super well. The accommodations were fabulous. The train reservations and physical tickets were immensely helpful. All of our requests were heeded. We had a great time!”

    –Karen French, Japan

Your Questions Answered

What to know about Borneo

What makes Borneo a top destination for tourism?

Borneo is a premier tourism destination, due to its unique biodiversity and landscapes, as well as its vibrant cultural heritage. The island is home to endangered species, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards, as well as ancient rainforests such as the Danum Valley Conservation Area. Ecotourism is a cornerstone of the Borneo experience, featuring community projects, conservation centers, and eco-lodges. Borneo's ecotourism initiatives not only provide unforgettable wildlife encounters but also promote conservation and sustainable development, making your visit a positive impact for both nature and local communities.

What are the best things to do in Borneo?

At the top of the list of things to do in Borneo is observing the unique wildlife. You can visit conservation centers like the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre or the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Additionally, taking wildlife cruises along the Kinabatangan River provides an opportunity to spot orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills. The Danum Valley rainforest is perfect for guided treks and canopy walks. Don't miss the opportunity to witness thousands of bats emerging from Gomantong Cave at dusk.

What does a typical Borneo itinerary look like?

A typical Borneo itinerary begins in Sepilok to visit wildlife sanctuaries, before traveling to the Kinabatangan River for river cruises and jungle walks. This is followed by a journey to the Danum Valley Conservation Area for rainforest treks, canopy walks, and night safaris. During your Borneo trip, stay at eco-lodges and embrace your opportunity to participate in conservation activities and engage with local communities.

Where can I see orangutans in Borneo?

You can see orangutans in various locations across Borneo. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre offers close-up views and educational programs about their rehabilitation efforts. For sightings in the wild, the Kinabatangan River and the Danum Valley Conservation Area are prime areas to see Borneo's orangutans.

Why should I choose Elevate Destinations as my Borneo travel guide?

Choosing Elevate Destinations as your Borneo travel guide will allow you and your family to have an expertly designed and responsible travel experience. Our itineraries are designed so you can enjoy traveling in Borneo while supporting communities and local conservation initiatives. With access to expert local guides, exclusive tours, and a commitment to giving back, the team at Elevate Destinations will create a meaningful, memorable, and ethical Borneo itinerary.

What makes the Borneo rainforest unique?

Borneo’s rainforest is among the oldest and most biodiverse on Earth, with some areas dating back 130 million years. Its multi-layered canopies are home to thousands of plant species, hundreds of bird species, and a long list of rare mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
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